According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this decision followed widespread complaints and outcry from residents who expressed dissatisfaction with the new levy, which had only recently been announced by the council’s Revenue Department.
The Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Christopher Maikalangu, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of the radio and TV tax on residential houses within the council area.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this decision followed widespread complaints and outcry from residents who expressed dissatisfaction with the new levy, which had only recently been announced by the council’s Revenue Department.
The initial directive had instructed landlords and homeowners within the municipality to pay an annual radio and television licence fee as part of efforts to boost internally generated revenue.
The policy, however, was met with strong opposition from residents who argued that the tax was burdensome and poorly timed, given the current economic hardship.
Civil society groups and local community associations had also called for its reversal, describing it as “insensitive” and “unnecessary.”
Speaking at the AMAC headquarters on Friday, Mr Maikalangu said the reversal became necessary following the public feedback.
He noted that his administration was committed to listening to the people and ensuring that government policies reflect their needs and welfare.
He explained that the original purpose of the tax was to generate funds for developmental projects, including the provision of basic amenities, infrastructure, and the improvement of community facilities.
However, the chairman admitted that the timing and implementation of the levy required broader stakeholder engagement and more public awareness before execution.
In his directive, he ordered the council’s Revenue Department to suspend all collections of the Radio-TV taxes from residential houses with immediate effect and to withdraw any demand notices already served.
Mr Maikalangu further instructed that the policy be reviewed to ensure transparency, fairness, and proper consultation with affected communities.
He stated that the tax would henceforth apply only to commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants, business premises, and offices, where the levy could be justified as a contribution to the council’s service delivery.
“The council will be disseminating detailed guidelines on the revised tax policy through official channels, including the council’s website, social media platforms, and community town-hall meetings, to ensure clarity and avoid any misunderstandings,” he said.
Mr Maikalangu thanked residents for their constructive engagement and assured them that his administration remains committed to fairness, accountability, and sustainable development across the council.
